Culling that began on March 21 was suspended, as authorities feared a backlash from the public owing to the ongoing festivities.

“We were able to start culling today which went on peacefully in various areas. At some pockets, there was some resistance from the locals. No one wants to get their chickens culled. We have begun aggressive awareness campaigns in the affected areas along with culling,” said Malda District Magistrate Chittoranjan Das.

“Given the delay, I have asked the culling teams to step up operations. So far, I am not satisfied with the pace. I have also received reports that despite our ban, poultry products are being sold in the open. I have asked the Malda municipality to look into the matter,” Das added.

The district magistrate also held meetings with officials of the Animal Husbandry and Animal Resources Development Department, the Malda municipal authorities and district health authorities. The issue was also discussed with leaders of all political parties and panchayat leaders.

The state government has pressed into service 31 culling teams who operated at Malda Town, English Bazar and adjoining areas including, Jadupur and Sahapur. Culling will encompass an area within a 3 km radius of Malda town.

Chicken and eggs were being sold in municipal markets as well as by roadside vendors in the affected areas.